These garlic butter pork chops are simple to make and packed with flavor! The juicy chops are cooked in a lovely butter and garlic mix, giving them a rich taste.
Cooking these chops is a breeze, and they make dinner feel fancy without all the fuss. I love enjoying them with a side of veggies or potatoes—so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too, but keep an eye on cooking time since they’ll cook faster.
Olive Oil: This helps create a nice sear. You can use vegetable oil or butter instead if you prefer. Just remember that butter burns faster, so keep the heat lower if you switch.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for control over salt. Feel free to use plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works but use a lot less—about a quarter teaspoon should do.
Thyme and Rosemary: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, but dried ones work fine too—just remember to use less as they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve a Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that golden-brown crust on your pork chops is essential, and it’s all about the heat and technique. Start by making sure your chops are completely dry; moisture will steam them instead of searing.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high until the oil is hot but not smoking—this helps achieve that beautiful crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making more than four chops, work in batches to maintain that sear.
- Once in the skillet, resist the urge to move them until it’s time to flip! This gives them time to form that tasty crust.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops Pan Seared to Perfection
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 15 minutes to cook. Overall, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish, including resting time. A quick yet gourmet meal that’s simple to whip up on any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is key because it helps get a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste—don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering but not smoking—this means it’s hot enough to sear the chops!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet carefully, and then let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes. You’re aiming for a beautiful golden brown color on the underside. Resist the urge to peek too often!
4. Flip and Flavor:
Once the underside is crispy and golden, flip the pork chops. Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary (if using) to the pan. The garlic will cook quickly, so keep an eye on it!
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly to let the butter pool on one side. Use a spoon to baste the melting garlic butter over the chops continuously for about 4-5 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will keep the chops juicy and flavorful!
6. Rest the Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the skillet, placing them on a plate to rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making them more succulent.
7. Make the Sauce:
While the chops are resting, stir the remaining tablespoon of butter into the pan sauce to thicken it slightly and enhance the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the rested pork chops. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious garlic butter pork chops!
FAQs for Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check the internal temperature a bit earlier, around 3-4 minutes per side.
How Can I Tell When the Pork Chops Are Cooked?
The best way to know when pork chops are done is to use an instant-read thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat and juicy!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary on hand, dried herbs can work just fine. Use about 1/3 of the amount listed (so, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary) for equivalent flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
To store leftovers, let the pork chops cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist!
